Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the newest available technology, and it is life changing. It has the ability to assist individuals legally and civilly; it can be built in with medical technology, assist with accessibility, help with homework, monitor traffic, and track individuals. However, this life-changing technology carries flaws in both its creation and distribution. In particular, as explained by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), AI may widen inequality between states.

As the UNDP explains, AI has the potential to erode human security, harm the environment, and exploit through data extractivism. The availability of AI will be granted to already developed countries, leaving others behind. Indigenous people are already disproportionately impacted by environmental destruction, which AI could exacerbate (Verissimo and Assuncao 2021).  Finally, with data extractivism, there can be unclear consent from participating parties. According to CCRVoices:

“Generally speaking, the concept of extractivism refers to an economic model that extracts value from regions thought of as ‘empty,’ ‘barbaric,’ or ‘primitive’ and that are perceived to contain resources that are available for outsiders to exploit. Usually, this type of extraction generates next-to-no economic benefit for local communities, even if local elites enrich themselves quite significantly.”

This extraction includes natural resources and energy sources. Again, this mainly impacts indigenous communities. 

However, AI availability does not just disrupt indigenous and developing nations. According to UNDP, AI distribution increases the erosion of human security through surveillance. The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists describes AI as a digital scarecrow. Steven Feldstein, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace states, “Countries are more likely to buy surveillance AI after periods of domestic unrest. Unsurprisingly, countries also appear more likely to import such software when their democratic institutions or civil liberties have eroded.” While authoritarian regimes are more likely to buy AI surveillance, democratic countries are buying this technology as well, including the United States.

A knowledge of the dangers of AI should encourage politicians globally to be aware and write cautionary policies. While accessible, new technology is beneficial, it can be damaging, especially to developing states. Barring AI surveillance, where mistakes are plausible, is a good first step in ensuring privacy and democratic norms. As well, congruent policy allows developing nations to be aware of the harmful risks of AI, and to approach distribution with caution.